Florida College Student Killed in Wrong-Way Crash; DUI Allegations Renew Road Safety Concerns
A wrong-way crash on Interstate 75 in Florida has left a family mourning the death of 21-year-old University of South Florida student Lauryn Akey, after authorities say an allegedly intoxicated driver caused a fatal head-on collision.
Investigators report that Akey was traveling home in Charlotte County on May 17 after attending a friend’s wedding when the crash occurred. Just minutes before the incident, she had reportedly stopped for gas and sent a final message to her family saying she loved them and would be home soon—words that have since taken on a devastating meaning for her loved ones.
Authorities allege that 53-year-old Dennis Olson was driving a Ford F-150 southbound in the northbound lanes of Interstate 75 when it struck Akey’s Honda CR-V head-on. Officials say Akey was ejected from her vehicle and pronounced dead at the scene.
Police also stated that Olson’s blood alcohol level was recorded at 0.222, nearly three times the legal limit. Witnesses reportedly described signs of impairment at the scene, including confusion and slurred speech, as bystanders assisted him following the crash. He allegedly told investigators he had only consumed one glass of wine and described having a “bad night,” according to reports.
